In a thrilling Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) matchup on Friday, Shenzhen Leopards star He Xining delivered a career-defining 43-point performance, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a 101-92 road loss to the Shanghai Sharks. The defeat snapped Shenzhen’s five-game winning streak while propelling Shanghai to second place in the league standings.
First-Half Fireworks
He Xining set the tone early, sinking a three-pointer to give Shenzhen an 11-5 lead. The 28-year-old guard dominated the first half with 23 points, including a buzzer-beating bank shot from beyond the arc. However, Shanghai’s Xie Liyongwei answered with a clutch fadeaway jumper to tie the game 51-51 at halftime.
Second-Half Surge
Shanghai’s Hassan Whiteside shifted momentum after the break, blocking Markell Johnson’s layup attempt and converting a physical drive to complete a double-double (24 points, 18 rebounds). The Sharks built a 13-point fourth-quarter lead before He Xining ignited a late rally, sinking his sixth three-pointer and tying the game at 91 with three minutes left.
Clutch Finish Seals Outcome
Shanghai’s composure prevailed in the final minutes as they executed a 10-1 run, highlighted by Kenneth Lofton’s decisive plays. The loss leaves Shenzhen fourth in the standings, while analysts predict intensified competition for playoff positioning this season.
